Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is a 0.5 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Seattle, Washington that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

DISTANCE

0.5 miles

ELEVATION GAIN

45 feet

ROUTE TYPE

Loop

dog friendly

kid friendly

hiking

walking

views

Explore the Food, Crafts, and History of Seattle's Pike Place Market. Not a hike per se but a great place to stretch your legs and take in the sights and sounds of Seattle's famous tourist destination.
Seattle's famous Pike Place Market has been one of the city's most lively attractions since it opened in 1907. Today it is your one-stop-shop for seafood, meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, crafts, wines, souvenirs--you name it! It is no wonder why this world-famous market is commonly referred to as "The Soul of Seattle."
Around 1906 the price of oinions in the city rose 10 times in price. Local citizens decided that enough was enough and they would try to cut out the middlemen to lower the prices and allow farmers to sell directly to consumers.
On August 17, 1907 eight farmers brought their goods for sale to the market's first opening whey were surprised by a crowed of over 10,000 people waiting for their produce. Within the first few hours they sold everything and the market has been thriving ever since.
Today it seems just as busy with over 10 million visitors every year from around the world. Inside the market houses over 200 businesses and almost as many independent craftsmen, farmers, and street performers all trying to benefit and making a living from the throngs of people every day.

I've made only one trip to Seattle and Pike Place Market was a must see for me. The amount of fresh seafood and beautiful produce was staggering....if I lived in Seattle I'd be here several times a week!!

Visited here a few times; Pike Place Market (claims to be the oldest farmer’s market in the country and the most interesting destination in Seattle) is at the Waterfront (1st Ave. and Pike St.); the stalls are deserted by 6PM so don't arrive late; it is 8 stories above the harbor on a bluff, with two ways to climb - via elevator hidden at base of the market or take the Harbor Stairs (good set of stairs with shops and gardens). Don’t miss Rachel the Pig (sit and take a picture!) - she marks the main entrance to the Main and North Arcades, which are full of fresh produce and shops. The South Arcade is the newest wing. Watch the "flying fish" at Pike Place Fish and watch out for the Monkfish. Down the street from Pike Place Fish is "the original" Starbucks - years ago this narrow space at 1912 Pike Place was the only Starbucks in the world. Be sure to notice how different the mermaid here looks compared to the official logo. Eat lunch at Etta's Seafood (prior to 3PM), park at the Pike Place Parking Garage at 1531 Western Ave. Enjoy the crowds, always something going on!

When in Seattle, you have to visit Pike's Place. A cruise ship was docked nearby and made the crowds there ridiculous. Be sure to stop by the places that throw the fish! Finding a parking place will probably be almost impossible.